Tag: writing
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Book Blurbs!
After listening to a detailed webinar on blurbing, it’s had me reexamine my own blurb. Book blurbs may seem like a nuisance for some writers, but they’re essential to marketing a book. There’s a structure to it. It hits the SEO hard and attracts readers. Below are my notes from the webinar. Credit goes to […]
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Loglines for Fiction
I recently listened to a podcast with authors from Realm Makers. They’re a close-knit group of professionals, mainly Christians, who have a great community to help writers. Anyway, in the podcast, loglines were mentioned. I had briefly researched the topic, but never in-depth. My logline was underdeveloped, especially with new revisions on the way. But […]
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Blog Update 3/27/22
Blog Changes For any of you longtime readers, the blog is experiencing an overhaul at the moment. You can expect changes in formatting and style. I’ve opted for a simpler, smoother website with less fluff and easier reading for your eyes—particularly on mobile. I’m weighing the upgrade to a business plan on WordPress, which would […]
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The Father Figure in Fiction
When you think of a father figure, what comes to mind? Someone tough and brave? Unbeatable? Or perhaps less pleasant thoughts. The father figure can be a very subjective experience. It’s also a useful trope in storytelling. Mothers influence tradition too, in different but substantial ways than fathers. But that’s a post for another time….. […]
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A Short Writing Update 2/14/22: It Begins
Big news, my dear readers! I’ve signed my first editorial contract. That means I’ve sent my manuscript off to an editor for feedback. I’ve opted for a critique of the plot, characters, pacing, and other details. Once I receive the feedback, I’ll perform the revisions. Next will be round two: the copyedits and proofing. The […]
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False Starts and Introductions to Novels: Too Cliché or A Forgotten Skill?
“At dawn, the sun either shines itself or hides behind clouds, promising what the day will bring. So it is with introductions in stories.” —anonymous Most agents and editors would balk at the suggestion of a false start intro. On its own, there’s nothing wrong with an exciting beginning, so long as it’s done well. […]
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Writing Habits Questionnaire
Sal’av (that’s Atlasian for hello), and welcome to the first post of 2022! Here I have a questionnaire about my writing habits, as requested by a friend. Being a writer is a complicated journey. I’m still green around the ears, but the more I write, the more I discover about myself. 1. How Often Do […]
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NaNoWriMo 2021 Thoughts, Plans, Reflections
Short post. It’s November again, and that means NaNo. As a creative writer, I’ve participated in NaNo before. Carving out a whole month to dedicate to the craft can seem daunting. As with any NaNoWriMo event, the goal is to write 50,000 words. In a month. This can be done however a writer chooses. NaNoWriMo […]
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The Hero’s Journey in Fiction
Years ago, I read a fantastic book named The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell. In it, the author details the Hero’s Journey. This is a powerful story element that every writer, artist, or spiritual seeker should understand. It illustrates a protagonist’s adventures, from a safe haven to the darkest dungeon—be they literal or figurative. The […]
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Beyond Sitting: Postures for Better Creativity, Health
As writers, we often sit in front of a laptop or a book to hone our craft. Whether its reading, writing, or something between, the art requires a significant amount of sitting. However, sitting for lengthy periods can strain the nervous system and thought process. Over the years, I’ve discovered several postures that have helped […]